Ouagadougou: In an interview with AIB, Dr. Abdou Azaque Zour©, a research fellow in genetics, molecular biology, and genomics at the Institute of Health Sciences Research of the CNRST, highlights the objectives of the African Cancer Genome Registries (ACGR) project and emphasizes the importance of early diagnosis, personalized medicine, and increased financial support to improve the fight against cancer on the continent.
According to Burkina Information Agency, the ACGR project aims to reduce the disparity in genomic data between Black populations and other global populations. It includes populations from sub-Saharan Africa, the Caribbean, and the Americas, with the participation of Burkina Faso. Dr. Zour© commends the collective work of the team, composed of clinicians, oncologists, urologists, and pathologists, which contributes to collecting representative data from the populations.
The project helps to reduce disparities in treatment between Black populations and other populations and to strengthen local capacities to meet the specific needs of the populations. Dr. Zour© emphasizes that the main challenge remains the early detection of cancer. The research allows obtaining real genomic data to develop appropriate diagnostic tests, such as sequencing the BRCA gene in other populations to identify potential pathologies.
Dr. Zour© explains that the BRCA gene is part of the human genome and is involved in breast cancer. When intact, it protects the cell against alterations as a suppressor gene. When altered, the cell divides uncontrollably and can develop into cancer. Some women carrying this mutation have a probability of developing the disease and passing it on to their offspring.
Genomics offers the potential for personalized treatments by knowing the genetic profile of each individual and providing treatments tailored to each patient. Each cancer is specific to the individual's genome, and the data can help clinicians personalize treatment. Dr. Zour© points out that the obstacles to genomics research in Africa include the high cost of analyses and the limited scope of scientific research.
Dr. Zour© underscores the importance of training African researchers and developing local laboratories to make autonomous decisions and ensure scientific sovereignty. He calls for support from authorities and partners to increase funding and improve infrastructure, which is crucial for enhancing cancer care in Africa and ensuring effective scientific sovereignty.